State of North American Freight — Jun 29, 2026

This week's headline The North American freight market has seen steady spot market rates, with van rates typically ranging from $1.80 to $2.40 per mile, reefer rates from $2.20 to $2.80 per mile, and flatbed rates from $2.40 to $3.10 per mile. In most cases, these rates are holding firm, with some fluctuations based on specific lanes and demand. According to recent data from DAT, the overall spot market has seen a slight increase in available loads, with a 2.5% rise in van loads and a 1.8% rise in reefer loads.

Diesel & fuel surcharge update Diesel prices have risen, with the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reporting an average price of $3.23 per gallon as of June 22, 2026. This increase will likely impact fuel surcharges, with brokers and shippers adjusting their rates to account for the higher fuel costs. Typically, fuel surcharges range from 10% to 20% of the total freight rate, depending on the lane and the shipper's fuel surcharge policy.

Hot freight lanes Several lanes are seeing high volumes of freight, including Los Angeles to Dallas, which has been a hot lane in recent weeks. Other busy lanes include Atlanta to Chicago, Toronto to Montreal, and Vancouver to Calgary. The Laredo to Memphis lane is also seeing increased activity, driven by cross-border trade and the need for efficient transportation of goods from Mexico to the U.S. In most cases, these lanes offer higher spot market rates due to the high demand for capacity.

Broker spotlight & payment trends Brokers are continuing to play a key role in the freight market, with many offering competitive rates and quick payment terms to attract carriers. According to Truckstop, the average broker-to-carrier payment time is around 14 days, although some brokers are offering faster payment options, such as same-day or next-day payment, to improve cash flow for carriers. Typically, brokers are also offering additional incentives, such as fuel discounts or free load board access, to build relationships with carriers and increase their network capacity.

Dispatcher tip of the week Dispatchers can optimize their operations by focusing on reducing deadhead miles and negotiating accessorials, such as detention and layover pay, with shippers and brokers. By using tools like Loadlink and RPM, dispatchers can also streamline their workflows and improve communication with drivers, reducing the risk of errors or miscommunication. Additionally, staying up-to-date with changing regulations, such as ELD and HOS requirements, and ensuring compliance with ACE/ACI and PARS/PAPS procedures, can help dispatchers avoid costly fines or delays.

Frequently asked questions **Q:** What is the current trend in spot market rates? **A:** Spot market rates are steady, with van rates typically ranging from $1.80 to $2.40 per mile, reefer rates from $2.20 to $2.80 per mile, and flatbed rates from $2.40 to $3.10 per mile. **Q:** How are diesel prices impacting fuel surcharges? **A:** Diesel prices have risen, and fuel surcharges are likely to increase as brokers and shippers adjust their rates to account for the higher fuel costs. **Q:** What resources are available for dispatchers to optimize their operations? **A:** Dispatchers can use tools like Loadlink, RPM, and EK Dispatch Academy to streamline their workflows, improve communication with drivers, and stay up-to-date with changing regulations and industry trends. For more information on EK Dispatch Academy's resources and services, visit our website to explore our pricing and load board options.